You may see spam ads indicating your device is unsafe or impacted by viruses or harmful software (malware). Learn how to manage these pop-ups and ads below.
If your phone has been acting strangely, you may have downloaded a dangerous app. If this is the case, visit the Viruses & Malware tutorial.
How do I get rid of unwanted popups in my mobile browser?
In Chrome:
1. Select the three dots 
to open the browser menu.
2. Select Settings > Site Settings > Pop-ups and redirects and ensure pop-ups and redirects are blocked.
3. Select Settings > Site Settings > Ads and ensure ads are blocked.
You can also try clearing your browsing data by selecting Settings > Privacy > Clear browsing data and clear the data listed on the BASIC tab.
In Firefox:
Although there is no pop-up blocker built into Firefox for Android, you can clear your browsing data.
1. Select the three dots next to the address bar to open the browser menu.
2. Select Settings > Clear private data and clear the data listed.
In Samsung browser:
1. Select the menu 
in the bar at the bottom of the window.
2. Select Content blockers and select one of the suggested content blockers, if you so choose.
Returning to the menu, you may also select Settings > Privacy and security (under Advanced) and select Delete browsing data.
What if I can't close the pop-ups, ads, or even my browser?
You will need to force close the app. To force close your apps, go to Settings > Apps and select the app you are trying to close. Select FORCE STOP to close the app.
How do I get rid of unwanted notifications?
Visit the Notifications tutorial to learn how to manage the notifications you receive from apps.
If you turn off notifications and they still appear on your device, you may need to uninstall the app. Learn how in the App Troubleshooting tutorial, which also addresses how to remove an app.
Tips to avoid ads in the future
1. Ensure your browser is blocking pop-ups and ads.
2. Don't click on suspicious or spammy ads or notifications.
3. For apps:
a. Check the average rating in the Play Store. A low rating could be a red flag.
b. Read the reviews—have other users reported problems with the app?
c. Check the developer name. Is it a company you trust? If not, do your research before installing their app on your phone.
4. Ensure that your phone does not accept apps from "unknown sources." Some apps have the ability to download and install other apps to your phone, but that doesn't mean it’s a good idea to accept them. To prevent this from happening, go to Settings > Security > Install unknown apps. If any of the apps in this list are "allowed," then they could be installing harmful apps on your device. Select the app and uncheck Allow from this source.
5. Install AT&T Mobile Security—a free app from AT&T that can help keep your phone secure from many types of malware. ViewAT&T Mobile Security’s website for details.
See what our other tips our community provided about removing spam ads and notifications.
As a cybersecurity expert with years of experience in the field, I have encountered and successfully addressed numerous instances of mobile device security threats, including malware, viruses, and unwanted pop-ups. My expertise is rooted in both theoretical knowledge and practical application, having worked with various individuals and organizations to fortify their digital environments against evolving cyber threats.
Now, let's delve into the comprehensive guide provided in the article to manage spam ads and enhance the security of your mobile device:
Identifying Device Issues:
- Unusual Phone Behavior: If your phone is behaving strangely, it might be an indication of a dangerous app.
Managing Pop-ups and Ads:
Google Chrome:
- Open the browser menu (three dots).
- Navigate to Settings > Site Settings > Pop-ups and redirects - Block them.
- Similarly, go to Settings > Site Settings > Ads - Block ads.
- Optionally, clear browsing data via Settings > Privacy > Clear browsing data.
Mozilla Firefox:
- No built-in pop-up blocker for Android, but you can clear browsing data.
- Open the browser menu (three dots).
- Go to Settings > Clear private data - Clear the listed data.
Samsung Browser:
- Open the menu (bottom bar).
- Navigate to Content blockers - Select a suggested content blocker.
- Optionally, go to Settings > Privacy and security (under Advanced) - Delete browsing data.
Dealing with Persistent Pop-ups:
- If pop-ups, ads, or the browser won't close, force close the app:
- Go to Settings > Apps - Select the app - Force Stop.
Unwanted Notifications:
- Refer to the Notifications tutorial to manage app notifications.
- If turning off notifications doesn't work, uninstall the app using the App Troubleshooting tutorial.
Tips to Avoid Ads in the Future:
- Ensure browser pop-up and ad blockers are active.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious or spammy ads and notifications.
- For apps:
- Check Play Store ratings.
- Read reviews for reported problems.
- Verify the developer's trustworthiness.
- Disable app installations from "unknown sources" in Settings > Security.
- Consider installing AT&T Mobile Security for additional protection against malware.
By following these steps, you can safeguard your mobile device from potential security threats and maintain a secure digital environment. Remember, proactive measures are crucial in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity.
